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Ledger's death is ruled accidental

The death of Australian actor Heath Ledger has been ruled accidental by the New York City Medical Examiner's Office.
1 of 1 Ledger - Death is ruled accidental
Ledger - Death is ruled accidental

The office said today that the 28-year-old actor died due to the abuse of prescription medications.

A statement said: "Mr Heath Ledger died as the result of acute intoxication by the combined effects of oxycodone, hydrocodone, diazepam, temazepam, alprazolam, and doxylamine."

"We have concluded that the manner of death is accident, resulting from the abuse of prescription medications."

The actor's family released a statement saying: "Today's results put an end to speculation, but our son's beautiful spirit and enduring memory will forever remain in our hearts."

"While no medications were taken in excess, we learned today the combination of doctor-prescribed drugs proved lethal for our boy."

The statement also said: "Heath's accidental death serves as a caution to the hidden dangers of combining prescription medication, even at low dosage."

Ledger was found dead at his New York apartment on 22 January.

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